Netherlands-based international heavy lift and transport specialist Mammoet is in talks to buy leading UK rival ALE.
Industry experts say they believe the discussions have been underway for several months and are progressing well. However, any deal is likely to need approval from a number of competition authorities in different markets and the companies are currently continuing to trade as normal.
Both Mammoet and ALE have so far remained tight-lipped about the negotiations although further information is expected to be revealed soon.